Roberto Mancini has hinted that he will add to his Manchester City squad in the final week of the transfer window but has ruled out a bid for Javi Martinez.
England prospect Jack Rodwell is City's only summer addition so far after he joined from Everton in a reported £15m move.
However, Mancini is still keen to bolster his already-strong ranks and has previously suggested that he is in search of some defensive cover.
Athletic Bilbao's Martinez, who is able to play in central defence and a holding midfield role, could be a perfect fit for the Citizens but Mancini has conceded that his £31m release clause is "too expensive".
"It is difficult, his cost is too big. It is too high for me," said Mancini.
"We have another week but I think today for us it is important to think about Liverpool. I am sure we will do what we want in one week.
"We are working, we can't say a name or how many players, but in the last days we will be working."
City have been linked with Swansea City winger Scott Sinclair and Roma captain Daniele De Rossi.
